Credit: Cartier
Known since ancient times and loved by Alexander the Great and Frederick the Great, chrysoprase is a variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz, very popular in Australia but also present in Germany, Poland, Russia, Arizona, California and Brazil. The most valuable variety is characterized by an intense pastel green color, which is highly sought after by jewelers for its beauty and rarity. The quality and intensity of the green of the stone, which can vary from light to dark green, depend on the specific geological conditions and the presence of traces of nickel.
The stone is often used in exclusive jewelry and limited editions, further increasing its allure and value. Examples include the Clash collection by Cartier and the Bouton d’Or collection by Van Cleef & Arpels, in which the chrysoprase, with its bright green, is combined with gold, creating an extraordinary visual contrast.
Chrysoprase has a shiny surface, but not overly reflective, which makes it particularly suitable for cabochon cuts (a rounded, faceted cut). This type of processing enhances the stone's brilliance and color, making it ideal for elegant, understated jewelry. Chrysoprase is also sometimes refined with very fine diamond powder to further enhance its brilliance. When combined with precious metals such as gold, silver, or platinum, the visual contrast creates an elegant, luxurious effect that enhances the stone's natural beauty.
